BRITISH Wool has opened entries for its 2019 Golden Fleece competition.

Managed by British Wool in association with JG Animal Health, farmers registered with British Wool can enter the competition via its network of 11 grading depots. Qualifying fleece competitions will also be held at 18 agricultural shows across the UK during 2019.

The competition aims to showcase the exceptional quality of British wool, while highlighting the importance of fleece presentation in maximising its value to producers. Last year’s winner was a Shetland fleece entered by Scottish show circuit regulars Robin and Margaret McEwen-King, while the reserve champion was a Rouge fleece from Sam McConnell, of Co Down in Northern Ireland.

The McEwen-Kings said: “We were delighted and overwhelmed that we had produced the champion golden fleece for 2018. We have been farming in Scotland for 26 years and have always had a great interest in producing quality wool. We were very proud to represent Scotland in the final and it was a great honour to receive this award.”

Judging for the 2019 Golden Fleece competition will take place across two stages, with the eight finalists invited to a presentation ceremony in Bradford during December, all receiving a £125 product voucher from JG Animal Health. The 2019 national champion will receive a competition salver and £1000 prize money, and the reserve champion will receive £500.

British Wool chairman Trevor Richards said: “We are expecting incredibly high standards again this year. Being selected as one of the best exhibiting fleeces in your country is something to be immensely proud of, but taking home the title of National Golden Fleece Champion really is the ultimate accolade of superb quality British wool.”

Competition entry forms are available from all British Wool depots. Full competition rules, as well as a list of eligible shows and British Wool grading depots, can be found at www.britishwool.org.uk